New Hampshire was among the first states to embrace legal online sports betting, launching in January 2020․ This guide provides a detailed overview of the current landscape, operators, legal framework, and what you need to know to bet safely and responsibly․
Legal Framework & History
In July 2019, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu signed a bill into law authorizing sports betting․ Initially, the law focused on retail betting, but was quickly amended to include online and mobile wagering․ The New Hampshire Lottery Commission oversees all sports betting activities․ A key aspect is the state’s unique approach – allowing a single operator (DraftKings) to operate statewide mobile betting, while retail locations are open to multiple providers․
Available Online Sportsbooks
Currently, DraftKings Sportsbook is the sole licensed operator for statewide mobile sports betting in New Hampshire․ This means all online bets are processed through their platform․ However, retail sportsbooks are available at several locations, including:
- The DraftKings Sportsbook at The Brook, Seabrook
- Phil’s Bogie & the Billiard Hall, Manchester
- Granite State Gaming & Policy, Berlin
While DraftKings dominates the online space, these retail locations offer alternative betting options․
What Sports Can You Bet On?
New Hampshire law allows betting on a wide variety of sports, including:
- Professional Football (NFL)
- College Football (NCAA)
- Professional Basketball (NBA)
- College Basketball (NCAA)
- Baseball (MLB)
- Hockey (NHL)
- Soccer (MLS, International)
- Tennis
- Golf
- MMA/Boxing
- And many more!
How to Get Started with Online Sports Betting
- Verify Eligibility: You must be 21 years or older and physically located within New Hampshire state lines․
- Create a DraftKings Account: Visit the DraftKings website or download the app․
- Verify Your Identity: Provide necessary documentation (ID, address verification) to confirm your identity․
- Make a Deposit: Fund your account using various methods like credit/debit cards, bank transfers, or e-wallets․
- Place Your Bets: Browse available sports and markets, select your wagers, and confirm your bet․
Responsible Gambling
It’s crucial to gamble responsibly․ The New Hampshire Lottery Commission provides resources for problem gambling, including:
- 1-800-GAMBLER: A confidential helpline․
- NH Problem Gambling Resource Network: https://www․nhproblemgambling․org/
Set limits for yourself, only bet what you can afford to lose, and seek help if you feel your gambling is becoming a problem․
Future of Sports Betting in New Hampshire
The current exclusive contract with DraftKings is a point of discussion․ There’s potential for future legislation to open up the market to more operators, increasing competition and potentially offering more variety to bettors․ However, as of now, DraftKings remains the primary online option․
